Fair dinkum, the number of times we didn’t know exactly where we were, how far from the next town, where the tourist attractions were (because of the lack of signs).... was very often.

And when I mentioned this to one Victorian, all he could say was, ‘I completely understand, you’re from NSW!’

We based ourselves in the ‘penthouse’ of a property at Apollo Bay for several days and it was perfect - quite central to some of our expeditions.

Our spot provided a view of the ocean, was 100 metres from the golf club, and just a short walk to the local establishment.

Doesn’t get any better!

We set out for some of the major attractions of the area - but the signposting dilemma really hit us hard.

Eventually we found what we were looking for - the Flywalk in the Otway National Park - an amazing stroll in rain forest and high up in the canopy of the trees - on steel walkways high above the ground.

We also came across Hopetoun Falls which is well worth seeing.

Our plan was also to view The Redwoods which were on the map but we couldn’t see a sign anywhere to them.

So we decided to give them a miss, until we were told they were definitely worth seeing.

So we headed back to whence we had come.

And again, we failed to find them - as I said, signposting was non existent.

Instead, we found ourselves on possibly the only dirt track in Victoria!

Used only by goats and apparently, logging trucks.

And it wasn’t just a short road - it seemed to go on and on forever.

I cursed for the first 25 kilometres, but then could only laugh as the road completely destroyed our vehicle.

Finally, we hit civilisation and couldn’t get back quick enough to the balcony at Apollo Bay to drown our frustrations.

MORE next week...

- - - -

If you’re still with me, some acknowledgement is in order for our local council.

Finally we have a footpath on the eastern side of town down to the junior cricket and soccer grounds at Harrison Park.

It also just happens to be on my regular walk so like the hundreds of young locals who walk down to the ground, I also appreciate the new path.

It has taken several weeks to complete but it is several metres wide and perfect for the short stroll from the main road, through the bush to the park.

Council - and in particular our Mayor Ken Keith - is encouraging people to get fit and this will certainly help.

There are many

other areas around

town which could do with the same treatment, and my understanding is they will get done in time.

- - - -

I fear the heat which really hit us this week could be the forerunner to a long and hot summer.

We are only midway through November and already we are experiencing temperatures in the 40s!

What’s it going to be like when we actually get to summer!

The garden is really feeling the strain, and despite desperate efforts, we are losing a few plants.

I happened to be talking to some of our senior residents during the week about the terrible conditions.

They pointed out that back in the 1940s when they were growing up, it was a lot hotter, more consistently.

‘And we had a war going on at the same time. You don’t know how good you have it now,’ they said.

It’s probably a good point - we do have things fairly easy and our expectations are pretty high.

Air conditioning has truly spoiled us.

When things get a little testy, we really struggle.

I know I do, anyway.

Maybe we should do what I understand happens in Holland when things get too hot.

They close everything up and send people home!

- - - -

THOUGHT FOR

THE WEEK:

‘Hearts, like doors, will open with ease

To very, very little keys,

And don’t forget that two of these

are ‘I thank you’ and ‘If you please.’

Have a great weekend - keep cool!